Knowing when to wean your breastfeeding baby

As a Lactation Consultant, I am very much about supporting women to reach their breastfeeding goals. For some women, this includes bottle and mix feeding.

• To achieve optimal health, it is recommended to exclusively breastfeed your baby for the first six months.
• From six months it is recommended that babies should be given nutritious complementary foods and continue to breastfeed up to the age of two years or beyond.

When to wean

The decision to wean your baby from breastfeeding is a personal one. The only person who can decide if it is the right time to wean is you! Don’t feel pressured by friends and family if you or your baby are not ready. If you are unsure you can always ring the Australian Breastfeeding Association Parent Helpline or chat to a Lactation Consultant.

I usually suggest weaning slowly if possible, as this will reduce the risk of mastitis and blocked ducts. As you reduce the number of breastfeeds that your baby is having, your milk supply will also start to reduce.

Article written by PBC Expo Midwife